Tired? Low sex drive? Problems sleeping? Wouldn’t it be excellent if there was an uncomplicated answer to these typical problems often caused simply by aging? For men, one answer enabled by drug advertisers is testosterone replacement therapy. Having low Testosterone even has its snappy name: Low T.
But as the usage of these medications grows, so do worries about possible harm if they’re taken unnecessarily. The Food and Drug Administration requires prescription testosterone replacement therapy products to be clearly labeled to inform men about a potential increased risk of heart attacks and stroke. So, is low “T” a real thing? And when is it OK to undertake testosterone replacement therapy?
What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone primarily found in males and produced in the testicles. It is responsible for various changes in males during puberty, such as deepening of the voice, facial and other body hair growth, and development of male sexual organs.
Testosterone also plays a crucial role in male sexual health by regulating the production of sperm and promoting erections. Insufficient production of Testosterone can lead to a range of symptoms.
- Low sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Fatigue
- Reduced muscle mass
- Depression
- Irritability
Testosterone replacement therapy usually arrives by forming patches, injections, pellets injected under the skin, or gels. Testosterone cannot be given in pill form because the liver breaks it down very fast.
Who should use testosterone replacement therapy?
Our experts say many people would benefit from testosterone replacement therapy in West Chester. If you have had severe medical treatment like chemotherapy or radiation, or you have injured a testicle, you may need testosterone replacement therapy.
But taking it to solve problems with fatigue, low energy, or a sinking sex drive without a complete check-up can mean the natural causes of these symptoms are overlooked.
It’s important to know that there are many reasons why your testosterone levels could be low. Accurately assessing your testosterone levels is essential to determine the best action. Your testosterone levels should be measured at least twice using a blood test, and both testTestosterone is a hormone primarily found in males and produced in the testicles.s should be taken between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. If the tests show that your testosterone levels are low, it’s important to discuss the possible causes with your doctor before making any decisions about testosterone replacement therapy.
Low Testosterone can result from diabetes, obesity, or aging. A healthy diet and exercise help.
You should not use TRT if you have:
- Blood clots
- Prostate or breast cancer (or suspected)
- Elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels
- Enlarged prostate causing difficulty with urination
- Heart attack or stroke
- High number of red blood cells
- Planning to have children
- Untreated sleep apnea
Risks of Testosterone Replacement Therapy
- Allergic reactions
- Blood clot
- Heart attack
- Increase in blood pressure
- Liver injury
- Mood swings, irritability, or hostility
- Prolonged or painful erection
- Sleep apnea
- Stroke
- Swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet
- Acne
- Change in sex drive or performance
- Pain, redness, or irritation at the application site
- Unexpected breast tissue growth
Various Methods of Testosterone Replacement Therapy
The method of treatment depends on the cause of low Testosterone, the patient’s preferences, cost, tolerance, and concern about fertility.
INJECTIONS: self or doctor administered in a muscle every 1-2 weeks; administered at a clinic every ten weeks for longer-acting. Side effects: uncomfortable, fluctuating symptoms.
GELS/SOLUTIONS: apply to the upper arm, shoulder, inner thigh, and armpit. Side effects: may transfer to others via skin contact—must wait to absorb completely into the skin.
PATCHES: adhere to skin daily to the back, abdomen, upper arm, and thigh; rotate locations to lessen skin reaction. Side effects: skin redness and rashes.
BUCCAL TABLETS: sticky pill applied to gums 2x a day, absorbs quickly into the bloodstream through gums—side effects: gum irritation.
PELLETS: implanted under the skin surgically every 3-6 months for consistent and long-term dosages. Side effects: pellet coming out through the skin, site infection/bleeding (rare), dose decreasing over time, and hypogonadism symptoms possibly returning towards the end of the dosing period.
NASAL GEL: Apply three pumps into each nostril three times a day. Side effects may include nasal irritation or congestion.
Testosterone facts for men
- Low Testosterone comes with age—T levels naturally decrease by 1% each year after age 30, though they don’t severely deplete, even in advanced age.
- Disorders of the testicles, pituitary gland, or brain may disrupt T production.
- T levels can temporarily lower due to excessive exercise, poor nutrition, severe illness, and certain medications.
Conclusion
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) remains a contentious topic, and its benefits and risks are subject to ongoing research and medical debate. While it offers potential relief for individuals with clinically low testosterone levels, caution must prevail. The therapy’s efficacy in enhancing muscle mass, libido, and overall vitality can be significant, yet it isn’t without potential side effects and long-term health implications.
Proper diagnosis, careful monitoring, and personalized treatment plans are imperative to mitigate risks and optimize outcomes. Understanding the complexities and consulting extensively with healthcare professionals before embarking on the TRT journey is crucial for informed decision-making and ensuring the therapy’s safe and effective use.